Eviction Diversion Program Featured at Daley Center Open House

Lawyers’ Committee for Better Housing thanks the seven judges who attended the Eviction Diversion Program open house Friday, November 2.

Judges and clerks involved in eviction court are able play an important role in creating alternatives to eviction, and we at LCBH appreciate the time and expertise of all who were able to attend.

The Eviction Diversion Program (EDP) is a pilot to help low- to moderate-income Chicagoans avoid potential eviction judgments by facilitating mutually beneficial agreements between tenants and landlords.

First, the pilot program will connect qualified clients to homelessness prevention funds. These funds can be used for rent arrearages to prevent eviction, for security deposits, and to cover first month’s rent for new apartments.

Case management is also part of the pilot program. Tenants will receive short-term, intensive case management services aimed at stabilizing the renters’ housing situation, addressing the underlying issues that led to the eviction, and educating the client on resources to utilize in the future prior to a housing crisis.

A third component of the program is resolution services. Case managers will work with tenants to advocate with their landlords for a mutually beneficial alternative to an eviction order.

The goal of the pilot is to unburden both the courts and shelter system. In order to increase accessibility for potential clients, the court has provided a space in the Richard J. Daley Center, where all upcoming informational sessions regarding the EDP will be held.

Interested tenants can make an appointment to visit the EDP office on the 13th floor of the Daley Center (Suite 1303), or can be assessed over the phone at 312-650-9070. Advocates or others interested in learning more about the program are invited to reach out to us by calling the EDP helpline.

Connect | Join | Learn | Give Back

About LCBH

LCBH provides free, comprehensive legal representation so that renters have a trusted advocate in court. Combined with education, outreach, supportive services and policy initiatives, our programs holistically address both the short-term housing crisis and underlying causes, so that more families can move from a path leading to homelessness to one of safe and stable housing.